Dear Clergy, Religious, Parishes, PLDs, Parish Administration and Faithful of the Diocese of Saskatoon:
As we mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation this weekend, I wish to encourage all to take time for prayer, reflection, and solidarity with Indigenous Peoples.
On Sept. 30, we particularly remember and honour Residential School Survivors and those children who never returned home. This is a call for greater awareness and action that goes beyond the annual observance of “Orange Shirt Day.” Rather, it is a call for all of us to practically and continually work toward truth and reconciliation, acknowledging and striving to overcome the past mistakes, arrogance, and misuse of authority that has so often been part of our shared collective history. It is a call to move forward together in greater understanding, pursuing justice, and working for a better future for all.
I again renew my pledge that our diocese will continue to walk a path of reconciliation and healing. This is part of our gospel call to reconciliation and solidarity. We strive to walk in love and friendship as sisters and brothers, always working for justice, hope and healing. Let us all continue to take concrete steps on this journey.
Rock Your Roots Reconciliation Walk Sept. 30 in Saskatoon marked the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Among the participants were diocesan ministry leaders and Bishop Mark Hagemoen. (Photo by Andrea Alas, Diocese of Saskatoon Catholic Foundation)
The Plenary Assembly of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) are gathering in King City, Ontario, for an annual meeting Sept. 25-28, bringing together 79 Catholic bishops from across the country to deliberate, discern, and discuss the life of the Church in Canada.
The first day of the 2023 Plenary Assembly of the CCCB included celebration of the Eucharist, a video presentation from Cardinal Tagle about a document related to reform of the Curia and the call for the Church to be missionary, a report from CCCB President Bishop Raymond Poisson highlighting the commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples and the Synod on Synodality, as well as reports related to the work of Development and Peace – Caritas Canada and World Youth Day.
Saskatoon Bishop Mark Hagemoen and Regina Archbishop Don Bolen (l-r) during a break in the 2023 Plenary Assembly meeting Sept. 25. (Submitted photo)
Salt+Light video summary of Day One of the CCCB Plenary Assembly:
Salt+Light video summary of Day Two of the CCCB Plenary Assembly:
Salt+Light video summary of Day Three of the CCCB Plenary Assembly:
Salt+Light video summary of Day Four of the CCCB Plenary Assembly:
Brother Bishops, distinguished guests, and members of the CCCB staff,
I am pleased to present to the members of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops my report on the activities of the Conference since its last plenary meeting.
The past year has been an exceptional one, marked by achievements in many areas. Today, I would like to focus on but two of these, because of their significance.
The CCCB’s pastoral solicitude for Indigenous Peoples is as old as the Conference itself. Yet, the Holy Father’s visit last July and his heartfelt apologies marked a significant milestone in the journey to reconciliation, a relatively recent focus for the CCCB, inspiring us to make new forays in our individual and collective pastoral engagements with Indigenous Peoples.
Let me begin by highlighting the long-anticipated publication of our four pastoral letters on reconciliation – to the First Nations, to the Inuit, to the Métis, and to the People of God in Canada. After three years of listening to Indigenous Peoples, followed by careful discernment and diligent work, we arrived at a series of key messages and commitments that, now having been published, will hopefully serve as a framework for furthering relationships of trust with Indigenous Peoples for years to come.
Our shared commitment to truth, healing, reconciliation, and hope will again be in evidence this week, as we consider future plans relative to the Canadian Catholic Indigenous Council, including how the Council itself might take up the commitments in the Pastoral Letters.
We know, of course, that reconciliation, if it is to be tangible, must have concrete local expression. For this, the role of individual dioceses and eparchies, each according to its means and ability, is indispensable. Thanks to their generosity, for example, the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund, which is only two years old, now stands at over $11 million and is well on track to exceed its five-year target of $30 million. Even more encouraging are the fruits of this incredible outpouring which can already be seen in the projects being initiated by Indigenous Peoples at the local level, supported by dioceses, to further healing and reconciliation.
Despite such progress, the legacy of the Residential Schools remains a source of real and prolonged inter-generational trauma for many. Appreciating that former students of the Residential Schools, as well as their children and grandchildren, wish to understand better the history of the schools in order to heal, and acknowledging that some of the records in certain diocesan archives could help this purpose, the Permanent Council approved guidelines this year to help dioceses develop their own policies on the disclosure of information pertaining to Indigenous-related records in diocesan archives.
No one can deny that the roots of inter-generational trauma in history are complex and go beyond the unique story of Canada’s Indian Residential Schools. Having heard Indigenous Peoples express these concerns, and after consulting the CCCB and USCCB, the Dicastery for Culture and Education and the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development issued a statement on the ‘Doctrine of Discovery.’
Within it, the two Dicasteries stated unequivocally that “respect for the facts of history demands an acknowledgment of the human weakness and failings of Christ’s disciples in every generation. Many Christians have committed evil acts against Indigenous Peoples, for which recent Popes have asked forgiveness on numerous occasions” …
“In no uncertain terms, the Church’s magisterium upholds the respect due to every human being. The Catholic Church therefore repudiates those concepts that fail to recognize the inherent human rights of indigenous peoples, including what has become known as the legal and political ‘doctrine of discovery.’”
The ‘Doctrine of Discovery’ and its legacy will, in due course, be the subject of an academic symposium, which we hope will cast greater light on it and on the concepts of human dignity and love of neighbour, rooted in the teachings of Christ, which are antithetical to the repression of Indigenous rights.
In taking stock of the past and looking toward the future, it is easy to become overwhelmed by the magnitude of the expectations tied to reconciliation. On such occasions, the one word that keeps coming my mind (and which is a touchstone of the Church for Pope Francis), is simply “accompaniment.” By this, I refer to the ministry of listening and consolation which plays a crucial role in making concrete the compassionate solicitude of Christ and the Church to Indigenous Peoples. To those who wish to walk with us, what we can offer, above all, as Christians and as shepherds of Christ’s flock, is empathy, compassion, and prayer so that the important journey toward healing and reconciliation may culminate in true freedom and lasting hope, not only for those who are affected today, but for younger Indigenous generations, as well.
This same theme of “accompaniment” is central to the second major area of work by the Conference since our plenary meeting last September. I refer, of course, to the Synod on Synodality, to which I should like to dedicate the remainder of my report. Synodality is a manifestation of the Church’s nature as the People of God journeying together. It is in this way that synodality implies “accompaniment.”
In one week, I shall begin a month-long stay in Rome for the Synod on Synodality, joined by Bishop McGrattan, Archbishop Miller, and Bishop Pelchat, each of us as delegates of the CCCB. We will be joined by the “non-bishop” members of the Synod for Canada selected by Pope Francis: Mr. Sami Aoun, Dr. Catherine Clifford, Sr. Chantal Desmarais, and Mrs. Linda Staudt. Since August, we have held online meetings, including one with our U.S. counterparts, to get to know each other better, to exchange on the Synod themes and questions, and above all to prepare spiritually for this important event in the life of the Church.
The journey leading up to this Synod has roughly taken two years of listening and dialogue, including both the national and continental stages. Furthermore, we know that the meeting this October is not the end of the work undertaken up to this point, but an intermediary step that will only conclude in October 2024.
To accomplish this with the USCCB, the CCCB participated in various online “Continental Assemblies” in English, French, and Spanish. In total, 146 Bishops and 931 other participants from Canada and the United States were appointed to participate in one of twelve such gatherings held in December 2022 to the end of January 2023. Together, the participants shared their perspectives on the Document for the Continental Stage issued by the General Secretariat of the Synod of Bishops in October 2022. I then participated in a week-long retreat in Orlando, along with representatives from Canada’s national synthesis writing team, as well as the USCCB Synod team, in order to produce the North American Final Document from what we heard.
At its core, synodality emphasises the dynamic, communal, and participatory nature of the Church, and is deeply rooted in the Church’s understanding of communion. During our plenary meeting this week, time has been set aside for us to reflect on the Instrumentum Laboris in order that the episcopal delegates of this Conference may come to know and better appreciate the perspectives of their brother Bishops regarding the questions that will be under consideration during the Synod. At this time, and on behalf of the other delegates, I ask for your accompaniment specifically in the form of prayer, so that we may contribute to the deliberations with wisdom and prudence for the good of the Church and her faithful.
In closing, I would like to stress that my report, which, in the interest of brevity, has only covered two aspects in the life of the CCCB since last September, does not mean to overlook the important work that has been accomplished by bishops working in so many other domains: liturgy and the sacraments, evangelization and catechesis, family and life, doctrine and social justice, interfaith and ecumenical relations, Catholic movements and associations, responsible ministry and the protection of minors and vulnerable persons, and so much more. Much of your work in each of these areas, which is supported by the staff of the Conference, will be reviewed over the course of this week. Meanwhile, I invite you to take time to familiarize yourself with the contents of the Programme booklet, including the list of events and activities in the life of Conference since our last plenary meeting. In so doing, I am certain you will be edified by the energy and commitment of the CCCB in so many ways, manifesting a Church that is alive, generous, and faith-filled.
As we embark on the next few days of deliberations during this year’s plenary meeting, faced with the important and occasionally daunting work that we must accomplish, and conscious of our human limitations, let us ask the Holy Spirit, the Paraclete, to guide us “into all the truth” (Jn 16:13) and to deepen our communion with Jesus and each other; this way, our decisions and service of love can bear fruit in our evangelizing mission in Canada.
25 September 2023
“With eyes fixed on Christ” (Hb 12,2),
+Raymond Poisson, Bishop of Saint-Jérôme-Mont-Laurier, President of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops
Representatives from Catholic Indigenous organizations came together with Catholic bishops from Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States for an International Conference on Catholic Indigenous Ministry (ICCI) held Sept. 19-21 in Washington, DC.
The gathering was deemed an historic milestone, advancing dialogue, learning, and fellowship among pastoral agents working with Indigenous-Catholic communities.
Hosted by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Subcommittee on Native American Affairs, the purpose of the gathering was to share experiences, ideas, resources, and best practices encountered in the relationship between the Catholic Church and Indigenous communities.
Canadian delegates were CCCB representatives Archbishop Richard Smith of Edmonton and Bishop Mark Hagemoen of Saskatoon, and Indigenous representatives Rosella Kinoshameg of Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory, Ojibway/Odawa, Giselle Marion of Tłı̨chǫ First Nation, Behchokǫ̀, NWT, and Graydon Nicholas of Welastoqiyik, Neqotkok.
“It was an honor to be here together along with the other representatives from the Native and Indigenous communities,” said Graydon Nicholas, a Wolastoquey Elder, former Lieutenant-Governor of New Brunswick, and member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Circle.
“I am grateful to have had the opportunity to share on the common themes that were identified, on matters of great interest, and on the hopes and challenges which we experience in our respective countries. We would like to thank the organizing committee for the years of careful preparation that have gone into making this Conference a reality,” Nicholas said.
“The meeting was an insightful sharing of ideas, experiences, and challenges for healing and reconciliation in reference to our four Church assemblies,” said CCCB delegate Bishop Mark Hagemoen of the Roman Catholic Saskatoon. “It was the beginning of what we all hope will be a developing discussion – sharing histories, challenges, and pathways of healing and hope. It was inspiring to be present for such sharing.”
The gathering added an international component to the wider and comprehensive synodal approach that the Committee on Cultural Diversity in the Church is taking to reinvigorate ministry with various ethnic and cultural communities.
Included as a key part of the meeting agenda was a listening session for the bishops with representatives from Catholic Indigenous organizations, with the intent that it will help charter a path for ministry to Indigenous Peoples at the international level. The topics of discussion emphasized the importance of being both Catholic and Indigenous, and included evangelization, education, reconciliation, healing, inculturation, as well as reflection on social concerns such as poverty, racism, and the environment.
“This conference provided an opportunity for all participants to dialogue, which has fostered a better understanding of the relationship between the Church and Indigenous peoples,” said CCCB delegate Archbishop Richard Smith of Edmonton. “My hope is that the conversations we had during this meeting can bring us closer together towards a path of dialogue and reconciliation. It was another opportunity to hear directly from the Indigenous peoples of Canada and other countries. This event was a reminder to walk together with our Indigenous peoples on the path to healing towards a future full of hope.”
The Canadian delegation to the International Conference on Catholic Indigenous Ministry. (Submitted photo)
Each year, the St. Thomas More (STM) community gathers in the college chapel to look for divine guidance in its mission of educating the next generation of leaders in our community.
On Wednesday, Sept. 13, the chapel was filled with voices both familiar and new at the 2023 Academic Mass.
On hand as celebrants were Bishop Mark Hagomoen of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon, as well as Fr. Andre Lalach of the Campus Ministry team, and STM’s newest additions, Fr. Daniel Yasinski, who joins the Campus Ministry staff to preside over masses at the College. and Fr. Greg Smith-Windsor, who has joined the faculty at STM in the philosophy department.
Michael MacLean of the STM Campus Ministry team leads the procession into the Academic Mass. (Photo by Paul Sinkewicz, STM)
The celebration began in a very special way, with Knowledge Keeper Jasmyn Albert performing a smudge ceremony.
After the bishop’s homily, Dr. Carl Still, President of STM College, presided over the commissioning of the STM community.
STM President Doug Still (Photo by Paul Sinkewicz, STM)
In the commissioning, those leading the college – faculty and staff – reaffirmed that they will work in partnership with its students for learning and growth, and to build a better society through the mission of the college.
The mission pledge states: “As the Catholic liberal arts college federated with the University of Saskatchewan, St. Thomas More College courageously explores the ‘riches of Revelation and of nature so that the united endeavour of intelligence and faith will enable people to come to the full measure of their humanity’. We are an inclusive community open to all persons.
“Through our teaching we are devoted to a partnership of learning and growth with our students which addresses the synthesis of faith and reason in all aspects of the human condition.
“The creative discovery of truth and its open dissemination nourishes our life as teachers and members of the wider academic and Catholic intellectual community.
“As a Catholic college we are called to share in Christ’s service to the people of God. Thus, the work of our college is not an end in itself, but must find application for the good of humanity.
I thereby promise to support and integrate the mission of St. Thomas More College during the upcoming academic year.”
This includes men discerning ordained priesthood as well as men or women discerning religious life or professional lay ecclesial ministry in the Catholic Church.
Program participants live in community and pursue academic studies while discerning their life’s vocation, obtaining spiritual formation while they obtain a degree.
Program coordinators are the Verbum Dei Missionary Sisters — Sr. Malou Tibayan, Sr. Marta Piano, and Sr. Mirasol Abala — working in conjunction with diocesan Vocation Co-Directors Fr. Colin Roy and Fr. Dan Yasinski.
Sts. Benedict and Scholastica Formation program includes spiritual and human formation, and community life at the residence near campus. (Submitted photo)
Bishop Mark Hagemoen has officially launched an updated Pastoral Plan for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon.
He presented the updated plan at the annual Administration Day gathering of priests, parish staff and ministry leaders Sept. 14 at the Cathedral of the Holy Family in Saskatoon.
The mission statement “To Proclaim Christ and God’s Kingdom Today” and the scriptural theme of “Have the same mind and heart of Jesus” (Phil 2:5) will continue, as will the six priorities identified in the Pastoral Plan that was first launched in September 2019.
Following several months of reflection on that original plan by the Diocesan Pastoral Council and feedback from a diocesan rural community task force, the updated Pastoral Plan includes several new “bullet points” under the six main priorities, which are:
New “bullet point” suggestions and examples under the various priorities includes “promote understanding each other and growing in love for one another – the synodal way,” which reflects the ongoing Synod on Synodality underway in the Church, in particular as a response to increasing polarization in society, Hagemoen noted.
Other additions to the plan priorities relate to the increasing challenges facing a number of smaller rural parishes across the diocese that are faced with changing demographics and declining numbers. This concern was also echoed during a question period at Administration Day, in the comments of a rural parish representative describing challenges faced by small, struggling parishes.
As part of the review of the pastoral plan, the bishop noted that he created a Rural Community Task Force to reflect upon the plan and provide feedback to the Diocesan Pastoral Council specifically about how it can address rural issues. That input is reflected in new points in the plan, including: “sharing experiences, resources – from the rural to the urban;” “foster awareness of and relationship with rural parishes;” and “parish and diocesan re-structuring as an experience of the paschal mystery (new Pentecost versus dying and death).”
Other priority additions include focusing on “significant sacramental celebrations, such as baptism and funerals,” as key moments for evangelization and outreach.
Also, as part of promoting the healing journey, new points added to the plan include building “an awareness and relationship with Creation: foster stewardship;” and addressing “exploitative societal and cultural problems, i.e. human trafficking.”
Bishop Mark Hagemoen listens to concerns about pressures faced by small rural parishes during a question period about the Pastoral Plan at Administration Day 2023. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)
Hagemoen noted that while it might not be possible for a parish to take on all six priorities, over the past four years “parishes have said what they have found helpful is focusing on ‘what are the one or two top areas that speak to our parish community and reality? Then these will be our focus.’”
Among the themes for the diocese and the ministries provided from the Catholic Pastoral Centre in moving forward with the Pastoral Plan and its priorities, is an ongoing focus on the universal call to mission and a commitment to actively live out the plan’s priorities, said the bishop. It includes “a belief and an ownership of the plan, a belief we can change the culture, especially where it needs to be changed, in our diocese and our context.”
In all of this, it is vital to “leave room for the Holy Spirit,” he added. “We need to put ourselves at the foot of the cross, and allow the Holy Spirit to work.”
Bishop’s Homily Sept. 17 – Introducing the updated plan:
Priests, lay staff and ministry leaders gathered on the Feast of the Exultation of the Cross Sept. 14 for an annual diocesan Administration Day held at the Cathedral of the Holy Family in Saskatoon.
The day started with an opening Mass celebrated by Bishop Mark Hagemoen and a number of priests from across the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon.
Mass for the Feast of the Exultation of the Holy Cross opened an annual diocesan Administration Day Sept. 14. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)
“We begin the fall season with a very practical day,” the bishop noted in his homily. “I am inspired that this particular day falls upon the Feast of the Exultation of the Cross.”
He noted that the cross and “having the mind and heart of Christ Jesus” shows the way for parishes, ministries and the diocese to navigate and move forward in proclaiming the Kingdom of God in a spirit of humility and patience, even in the face of many challenges and a polarized, divided world.
The Administration Day program was led by MC Greg Chatlain, the new diocesan Director of Finance and Administration at the Catholic Pastoral Centre, and included introducing and welcoming new priests, parish and diocesan staff members, followed by a range of information updates and presentations about ministry and upcoming events and programs in the diocese of Saskatoon.
MC Greg Chatlain, Director of Administration and Finance (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)
Pastoral Plan
Bishop Mark Hagemoen introduced the newly updated Pastoral Plan prepared by the Diocesan Pastoral Council after several months of reflection. Determining that the original plan launched four years ago in September 2019 is still pertinent, the decision was to update some of the priorities, rather than to launch an entirely new plan, he said.
The mission statement “To Proclaim Christ and God’s Kingdom Today” and the scriptural theme of “Have the same mind and heart of Jesus” (Phil 2:5) will continue, as will the six priorities identified in the Pastoral Plan – along with several additions. (See: related article HERE)
Bishop Mark Hagemoen introduced the updated diocesan Pastoral Plan. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)
Catholic Foundation
Raissa Bugyi of the Diocese of Saskatoon Catholic Foundation, provided a presentation on planned giving, noting that information and a video about planned giving are now available to parishes.
Raissa Bugyi, Executive Director of the Diocese of Saskatoon Catholic Foundation. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)
Later in the day, Bugyi also introduced the Bishop’s Annual Appeal 2023, which will begin in parishes in October in support of a range of ministry and programs in the diocese of Saskatoon.
Administration and Finance
Amit Raj, the new Senior Accountant at the Catholic Pastoral Centre, provided information about the benefits and logistics of setting up electronic transfers to make payments. He noted that electronic banking has a shorter processing time than paper cheques, is less costly, and protects private information. He reviewed supports available from financial institutions and the diocese for making the transition, and best practices for security, administration and accountability.
Diocesan Senior Accountant Amit Raj (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)
Ejibha (Jibsy) Ehkeng, the new coordinator of Human Resource at the Catholic Pastoral Centre, gave a presentation about the importance of “Emotional Intelligence” in improving team performance and building empathic, compassionate workplaces and parish communities.
Jibsy Ehkeng, Coordinator of Human Resources
Information about other Administration and Finance matters included reminders about reporting and insurance, and an update about the diocesan Office of Migration’s work in refugee sponsorship.
Welcoming newcomers
As a Sponsorship Agreement Holder with the federal government, the diocese of Saskatoon was recently evaluated by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, Chatlain reported on behalf of Office of Migration coordinator Dr. Jan Bigland-Pritchard. The diocesan Office of Migration and its parish and community sponsorship groups passed that evaluation and were placed in the top category (A1) with no issues raised.
Dating from 2015, the diocese has sponsored 331 refugees to come to Canada, with another 144 either arrived or still in sponsorship to the end of 2022. In 2023, 27 people have been sponsored so far, with more applications underway. There are currently 13 parish refugee committees plus one community group community who are sponsoring refugees through the diocesan Office of Migration.
“September will be a big ‘graduation month,’ with 21 people completing their 12 months of sponsorship, noted Chatlain. “This is a huge achievement by the parish and community settlement teams, as well as by the newcomers themselves.”
Fr. Stefano Penna, rector and pastor at St. Paul Co-Cathedral leads opening prayer at Administration Day Sept. 14. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)
“You Will Be My Witnesses”
A joint Bishop’s Annual Appeal and diocesan ministry “resource guide” publication was introduced during Administration Day. The 12-page booklet will be mailed to parishioners, as well as being available online at https://rcdos.ca/resource-guide
John Hickey, diocesan Evangelization and Mission Leader compared the 12-page booklet to the city of Saskatoon’s “leisure guide” of swimming lessons and recreational programs. In addition to diocesan programming, a number of parish and group events are also included in the publication.
John Hickey introduced a new “You Shall Be My WItnesses” resource guide publication highlighting ministries and upcoming events in the Catholic community. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)
A letter from Bishop Mark Hagemoen about the Bishop’s Annual Appeal and its 2023 theme “You Will Be My Witnesses” is also included in the resource guide publication, along with a BAA donation form.
Ministry Presentations
Ministry coordinators provided updates and information about programs and events during Administration Day, including Astrid Alas, Adult Faith coordinator; Myron Rogal, Justice and Peace coordinator; Sr. Marta Piano, co-coordinator of Sts. Benedict and Scholastica Formation Program; Jaqueline Saretsky, coordinator of Hospital Chaplaincy; and Marilyn Jackson, Director of Ministry Services. (See: related article HERE).
Development and Peace – Caritas Canada
Michael LeBlanc, provincial animator with Development and Peace – Caritas Canada, provided an overview of the Canadian Catholic organization and its work, describing the current “Stand for the Land” theme, and the work of the organization to raise awareness about issues, to encourage advocacy among concerned Canadians, and to raise funds to assist partners in the Global South.
Heeding the call of Development and Peace partner ERIC-Radio Progreso, the Canadian Catholic organization is mobilizing to support communities in Guapinol and the San Pedro sector in Honduras whose lands, waters, livelihoods and even lives are threatened by an open-pit iron mine. “Since the mine was irregularly established in a national park, it has polluted the rivers. The communities’ peaceful protests have been met with violence and repression. Trumped-up charges have been laid against 32 people, eight have spent over 900 days in detention, and three have been killed.”
LeBlanc noted that Development and Peace also supports humanitarian efforts in times of crisis, such as the recent devastating earthquake in Morocco. Development and Peace – Caritas Canada (DPCC) is in contact with organizations in the region, including Caritas Morocco. The wider Caritas Internationalis network, too, is mobilizing to help as necessary.
An information table about Development and Peace-Caritas Canada was available at Administration Day. Provincial animator Michael LeBlanc (left) also spoke to parish leaders about the organization and the “Stand for the Land” campaign. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)
Other reports
Communication updates and diocesan communication platforms were also briefly reviewed at Administration Day, and Julie Leblanc, Executive Assistant to the Curia, provided information about an upcoming cybersecurity training session for pastors and Catholic Pastoral Centre staff.
Diocesan safeguarding coordinator Brenda FitzGerald joined Chatlain to provide an update about Covenant of Care safeguarding, including a new process for requesting a Vulnerable Sector Search for volunteers.
Director of Administration and Finance Greg Chatlain and Safeguarding Coordinator Brenda FitzGerald (left to right) provided an update about Covenant of Care safeguarding work in the diocese of Saskatoon. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)
To conclude the day, Bishop Mark Hagemoen gave an update about policy development, before providing a closing blessing to participants.
Priests from across the diocese participated in a short “ice breaker” during the diocesan Administration Day Sept. 14. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)
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Ministry reports and events highlighted at Admin Day
A joint Bishop’s Annual Appeal and diocesan ministry “resource guide” publication was introduced during Administration Day Sept. 14 in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon.
The 12-page booklet will be mailed to parishioners, as well as being available online at rcdos.ca/resource-guide
John Hickey introduced a new “You Shall Be My WItnesses” resource guide publication highlighting ministries and upcoming events in the Catholic community. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)
John Hickey, diocesan Evangelization and Mission Leader compared the 12-page booklet to the city of Saskatoon’s “leisure guide” of swimming lessons and recreational programs – but for Catholics seeking programs and information about faith enrichment events.
Before the summer, Hickey contacted parishes and Catholic groups to invite event submissions, and a number of parish and Catholic organizations’ events are also included in the publication.
A letter from Bishop Mark Hagemoen about the Bishop’s Annual Appeal and its 2023 theme “You Will Be My Witnesses” is also included in the resource guide publication, along with a BAA donation form.
Adult Faith programs
Other ministry updates on Administration Day included information from Adult Faith Coordinator Astrid Alas about upcoming Awaken faith formation programs, including online webinars in fall 2023 and fall 2024: “The Mystery of the Eucharist in the Life of the Church” online from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Oct. 3, 10, 17 and 24, and “Everyday Apostles” online Feb. 20 and 27, and March 5 and 12.
Alas also introduced a video about the five-part “Church of the New Evangelization” in-person Awaken series to be held on five Wednesday evenings Oct. 25, Nov. 1-22 at the Cathedral of the Holy Family, introducing Vatican II and papal documents about evangelization from four popes: Paul VI, John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Pope Francis.
Speakers for the series are Sr. Mirasol Abala of the Verbum Dei Missionaries; Marilyn Jackson, Director of Ministry Services; Bishop Mark Hagemoen; Sr. Malou Tibayan of the Verbum Dei Missionaries; and Fr. David Tumback, pastor at St. Patrick Parish. Video:
She also reminded parish leadership about the Catherine of Siena Institute’s “Called and Gifted” program, which is available in the diocese of Saskatoon.
Justice and Peace
Myron Rogal, diocesan coordinator of Justice and Peace, spoke about a number of ongoing issues and upcoming events.
“We will continue to be looking at human trafficking, which was mentioned this morning during the presentation of the pastoral plan,” Rogal said, pointing to a “Working Toward Freedom” four-section resource about the issue created by the diocese of Saskatoon, the diocese of Victoria and the archdiocese of Vancouver, which is available on the diocesan website. He noted that this issue has also been taken on by the Catholic Women’s League both locally and nationally.
Myron Rogal, Office of Justice and Peace (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)
Another ongoing project is Grow Hope Saskatchewan, which brings together farmers and donors to raise crops that are sold in support of relieving hunger and increasing food security in marginalized areas of the world. “This year again we have 421 acres that can be sponsored,” he noted. Ecumenical partners include the diocese of Saskatoon, Development and Peace-Caritas Canada, Mennonite Central Committee and Canadian Baptist Ministries.
Rogal noted that Sept. 30 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, and highlighted a “Walk for Reconciliation” event being held in Saskatoon that morning. A similar walk is also planned in Humboldt.
Former TRC Commissioner Wilton Littlechild is one of the speakers at an Oct. 26 event being held in Saskatoon in conjunction with the Catholic Health Association of Saskatchewan convention – the evening talk can be attended on its own, Rogal noted.
Nov 22 is “Red Wednesday” – the international day to recognize and to pray for persecuted Christians around the world. An ecumenical prayer service is planned for that evening, as well as a novena to St. Michael the Archangel beforehand, Rogal noted
Ongoing office support around the Diocesan Council for Truth and Reconciliation and fund-raising for the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund are also continuing. “We are available to give presentations on that fund,” he noted.
Another ongoing issue is working for those without housing in our city, working towards warm-up shelters and other outreach.
Sts. Benedict and Scholastica
Sr. Marta Piano of the Verbum Dei Missionaries provided a brief overview of the Sts. Benedict and Scholastica Formation Program, which offers human and spiritual formation in a community setting, to those engaged in an academic program, who are discerning priesthood, religious life, or lay ecclesial ministry.
So far, the program has included only men, but it is also open to women discerning religious life or ecclesial ministry, she noted.
Prayer, retreats, spiritual formation and community living foster this “integral formation” of young adults, Piano said.
Sr. Marta Piano, Verbum Dei (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)
Sts. Benedict and Scholastica is co-ordinated by the Verbum Dei Missionaries (Piano, Sr. Malou Tibayan and Sr. Mirasol Abala), on a team with Vocations directors Fr. Colin Roy and Fr. Dan Yasinski, and Bishop Mark Hagemoen.
Hospital Chaplaincy
Jacqueline Saretsky, coordinator of Hospital Chaplaincy, reported on her work with diocesan hospital chaplain Fr. Benedict Arakkal, providing spiritual care to patients at Royal University Hospital (RUH), Saskatoon City Hospital, Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital, and the Leslie and Irene Dubé Centre for Mental Health.
“Fr Arakkal goes to all these hospitals, and he shares the load at St. Paul’s Hospital with Fr. Cosmas Epifano, OSB, who has been gratefully on loan to us from St. Peter’s Monastery out at Muenster.”
Regarding the ministry, she noted that Arakkal says Mass at RUH at 2 p.m. Sundays and at City Hospital at 4 p.m., for patients, their families, and staff. “So many of your parishioners from out of town come (to hospital), and it is good for you to have that knowledge, so that you can inform them,” she noted. “If you have a parishioner at one of the hospitals in the city, encourage them to ask for a chaplain upon admission, otherwise, we might not know that they are there… you have to request it.”
Right now, Saretsky also has a mission to educate people about palliative care, using the Horizons of Hope program developed by the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops. The goal is to have the program presented in every parish across Canada, she said.
“Many Catholics don’t know what palliative care is, and what it involves, and many Catholics do not understand what the Catholic Church teaches about end-of-life and the type of care that they have a right to receive,” she said.
“End-of-life care does not include Medical Assistance in Dying, also known as MAiD, which, bluntly stated involves euthanizing people by lethal injection – rather, palliatve care is care that supports the patient with compassionate physical, medical, social, and spiritual care until natural death.”
Any parish or group interested in the Horizons of Hope workshop can contact Saretsky at (306) 659- 5839 or jsaretsky@rcdos.ca
Evangelization and Catechesis
Director of Ministry Services Marilyn Jackson encouraged parish leaders to contact her office if they have any questions, requests, or ministry needs.
She also provided an update about initiatives in the diocesan Office of Evangelization and Catechesis, including partnering with FacetoFace Ministries to offer confirmation retreats to young people in March 2024 at a number of locations. “All the confirmation candidates across the diocese will be able to choose one of those confirmation retreats to go to,” she said, encouraging parish leaders to watch for details in the coming weeks.
Jackson also highlighted sacramental preparation guidelines and resource materials available to parishes.
Marilyn Jackson, diocesan Director of Ministry Services, with MC Greg Chatlain, Director of Administration and Finance in the background. (Photo by Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Catholic Saskatoon News)
Marriage Movement
A marriage and family committee was recently formed in the diocese to identify features and gaps in the Pastoral Plan around the priority of “Building Family and Community.” The recommendation was to implement a “Marriage Movement” that will help to create social supports for married couples through small group gatherings.
A brochure about the initiative has been created inviting parishes to assist in supporting married couples and families through this movement. “We can provide support as a diocese, but it will only be successful if it is carried out at the parish level.”
Fall Congress
Jackson also highlighted the upcoming day-long Fall Congress on Thursday, Oct. 19 at the Cathedral of the Holy Family in Saskatoon, which is open to clergy, staff, lay leadership, and the general public. Registration can be found at: https://form.jotform.com/231977301558260
Keynote speaker for “The Lord Heals the Broken-Hearted and Saves the Crushed in Spirit” (Psalm 34:18) is Bryana Russell of Sanctuary Mental Health Ministries. Jackson introduced the ministry with a video about the Sanctuary vision of care and accompaniment. “If people are coming to us in their woundedness, we have to respond,” said Jackson.
Other speakers during the day will include a panel of grief support ministries in the diocese, including Dianna Knaus of Mourning to Dawn grief ministry for bereaved spouses; Sharon Powell of Transitions, which ministers to those who are separated or divorced; Anne Marie Hughes of the Saskatoon Pregnancy Options Support Centre, who will speak about post-abortion grief ministry; and Restorative Ministry coordinator Dianne Anderson, who will speak about ‘what grief and healing looks like in prison ministry.” There will also be information about Red Bird Ministries, a non-profit, pro-life Catholic grief ministry program for parents who have lost a child, from pregnancy through adulthood.
“Rooted in Faith” was the theme of an opening day celebration for all teachers, staff, administration and board members of Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools, held Sept. 1 at the Cathedral of the Holy Family in Saskatoon.
MCs for the morning celebrations were Paula Fortier, principal of École Sr. O’Brien, and Maria Sander, Vice Principal of St. Philip School, who focused on the theme of relationships in their commentary and introductions.
A tipi set up next to the Cathedral was the site of an early-morning pipe ceremony with Elder Roddy Stonne to open the day. Before the opening Mass, Elder Jon Merasty and Maurice Bear provided an Honour Song.
Mass was celebrated by Bishop Mark Hagemoen of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon, along with Fr. Ivan Nahachewsky of the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Saskatoon, and a number of priests from across the diocese and eparchy.
In his homily, Bishop Hagemoen reflected upon five essential marks of Catholic education, citing a 2015 document from the Saskatchewan Catholic School Boards Association, describing how Catholic education is:
Inspired by a supernatural vision
Founded on a Christian anthropology as revealed by God and our faith tradition
Animated by communion and community
Imbued with a Catholic world-view throughout its curriculum
Sustained by Gospel witness.
“The Church sees education as a process that, in light of humanity’s transcendent destiny, forms the whole child and seeks to fix his or her eyes on heaven. The specific purpose of a Catholic education is the formation of boys and girls, men and women, who will be good citizens of this world, loving God and neighbour, and enriching society with the leaven of the gospel, and who will also be citizens of the world to come, thus fulfilling their destiny to become saints,” he said.
The bishop thanked teachers, staff, administrators and board members for their leadership and witness, and dedication to the accompaniment and mentoring of young people in Catholic schools, before concluding with a prayer for the World Day of Prayer for Creation, also marked on Sept. 1.
After the homily, all those present stood to make a Renewal of Commitment, pledging to use their gifts to serve all students who attend GSCS and help them respond generously too Christ’s call to be his followers; to recognize and embrace the diversity of gifts present in schools, and to work with fellow staff members to help students realize that the love of God “is forever and for everyone.” They also pledged “with humility, gentleness and patience of faithful disciples (to) endeavour to be living examples of joy in our schools, families, and community.”
Speakers after Mass included Diane Boyko, Chair of the GSCS Board of Education; François Rivard, GSCS Director of Education, and Laurie Karwacki, Chair of the GSCS Foundation. All three brought words of welcome, affirmation and encouragement for the upcoming school year.
The opening day keynote featured speaker and author Roy Petitfils of Louisiana, who has worked with youth and young adults for more than 20 years as minister, a teacher, school administrator, school counselor and now as a counselor in private practice. His books include What Teens Want You to Know (But Don’t Tell You; A Practical Guide to High School Campus Ministry; and God Wears Running Shoes: Spiritual Reflections for Those Ministering to Young People.
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